Aiming to end war: Zelenskyy announces next round of Ukraine-Russia talks
Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine and Russia will hold US-brokered trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi on February 4–5.
Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy is a Ukrainian politician, comedian, and the sixth president of Ukraine. Zelenskyy was born on May 25, 1978, to Jewish parents in Kryvyi Rih, a Russian-speaking region in south-eastern Ukraine. Before his acting career, he earned a law degree from Kyiv National Economic University. Later, as a comedian, he began his acting career. In 1998, he founded his production company, Kvartal 95, which produces films, cartoons, and TV shows. From 2015 to 2019, Zelenskyy played the role of Ukraine’s president in the TV series Servant of the People. In March 2018, employees of Kvartal 95 established a political party with the same name as the show, Servant of the People.
Zelenskyy announced his candidacy for the 2019 Ukrainian presidential election on December 31, 2018. He won the election with 73.2 per cent of the vote, defeating the incumbent president, Petro Poroshenko. As a populist figure, he positioned himself as an anti-establishment, anti-corruption candidate.
As president, Zelenskyy focused on e-governance and fostering unity between Ukrainian-speaking and Russian-speaking communities. He actively used social media, particularly Instagram, to connect with citizens. He also abolished legal immunity for members of the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament.
During his presidential campaign, Zelenskyy promised to end Ukraine’s long-standing conflict with Russia. However, relations between Ukraine and Russia deteriorated significantly starting in early 2022. Initially, Zelenskyy advocated for peace and sought assistance from Western countries, especially NATO. Later, he mobilised armed forces along the border in response to escalating tensions.
In September 2003, Zelenskyy married Olena Kiyashko, his schoolmate. The couple has two children – a daughter, Oleksandra, and a son, Kyrylo.
Zelenskyy’s first language is Russian, but he is also fluent in Ukrainian and English. In 2018, his net worth was approximately 37 million hryvnias (around USD 1.5 million).
Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine and Russia will hold US-brokered trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi on February 4–5.
The Kremlin said Russia has renewed its invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for peace talks in Moscow as US-mediated negotiations gain momentum, though major differences persist.
US, Ukrainian and Russian envoys met in Abu Dhabi, the first joint talks involving Washington, as President Donald Trump pushes momentum toward ending Russia’s war, though territorial disputes remain unresolved.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sharply criticised Europe’s lack of political will at Davos, warning that inaction and reliance on the US are allowing Russia and Vladimir Putin to press on.
US President Donald Trump expressed optimism after meeting Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and emphasised the urgent need to end the Russia-Ukraine war. He highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts and the importance of saving lives amidst the conflict.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, without naming Vladimir Putin or Russia, suggested the United States should deal with other 'dictators' as it did with Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro.
Kyrylo Budanov, a career intelligence officer, has led Ukraine’s military intelligence since 2020 and emerged as a prominent wartime figure, overseeing covert operations and strategic messaging against Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for a strong peace deal, rejecting any weak agreement that could threaten Ukraine’s future, while Russian President Vladimir Putin said he remains confident of victory and reaffirmed his support for the ongoing war.
Kyiv stressed Moscow had provided no evidence, despite almost 24 hours transpiring since Russia made the claim.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over reports of Ukrainian drones targeting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residence near Moscow.
According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Russian air defences intercepted and destroyed 91 long-range drones, and there were no casualties or material damage.
Kremlin spokesperson did not comment on the idea of a free economic zone in Donbas or on the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is controlled by Russia.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking alongside Trump, thanked the US president for the meeting and said the two sides had covered all aspects of a proposed peace framework. He said a 20-point peace plan is now 90 per cent agreed.
US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met in Florida to discuss final-stage peace efforts, following Trump’s recent telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The phone call came just about an hour before Zelenskyy and Trump wer set to meet in Florida to push forward efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Canada’s prime minister en route to US talks with Donald Trump, hours after Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack on Kyiv and claimed new battlefield gains.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced USD 2.5 billion in economic aid for Ukraine after meeting President Zelenskyy, aiming to unlock IMF funding and support reconstruction amid ongoing Russian attacks.
State grid operator Ukrenergo said energy sites in Kyiv and surrounding regions were among those targeted.
Donald Trump said Ukraine’s President has no leverage without US approval, striking a hard tone ahead of talks with Volodymyr Zelenskyy even as both sides prepare to discuss security guarantees and peace proposals.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Sunday talks with Donald Trump will focus on security guarantees, territory and economic terms, even as fighting reminds diplomats of the war’s urgency.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine as major cities face renewed aerial bombardments. Reporter Pranay provides updates on the ground situation, noting that Russia has targeted Kyiv and Kharkiv with over 100 UAVs, leaving the capital without power amidst freezing temperatures of minus 11 degrees Celsius. Pranay states, 'Most of the Kyiv city, which is the capital of Ukraine, is out of power, and heating is a big challenge.' The report highlights the stark contrast between the intense fighting on the battlefronts and the ongoing trilateral diplomatic talks involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in Abu Dhabi. While these talks in the UAE offer a glimmer of hope for a solution, the humanitarian crisis deepens with thousands of lives lost weekly. The programme explores the strategic targeting of electrical facilities by Russian forces and the retaliatory drone strikes by Ukraine as the war enters its fourth year.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the high-stakes diplomatic engagement between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Following their hour-long meeting, Zelenskyy expressed optimism about an upcoming trilateral summit in the UAE involving the US, Russia, and Ukraine, stating, 'I think that trilateral meetings maybe will show each other variants' regarding unresolved territorial issues in eastern Ukraine. While Zelenskyy criticised European leaders for their perceived inaction and highlighted the disparity between the legal pursuit of Nicolas Maduro and Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump remained hopeful of a swift resolution. Trump asserted that a settlement is coming 'very soon,' noting that 'everyone wants the war to end.' The programme examines the shift in geopolitical dynamics during Trump’s second term and the potential for these first-of-their-kind trilateral negotiations to finally broker a peace deal after nearly four years of conflict.
On this Special Report, Professor Joseph Siracusa analyses Donald Trump’s controversial address at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Siracusa highlights the irony of Trump’s presence at a forum themed around dialogue, noting that the President 'really has no restraints' compared to his first term. The discussion focuses on Trump’s persistent demand for the formal acquisition of Greenland, despite opposition from Denmark and the autonomous territory. Siracusa observes that while Trump has reportedly taken military force off the table, his 'tunnel vision' regarding Greenland threatens the strategic unity of NATO. The transcript also covers Trump’s positive remarks regarding India, where he described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a 'fantastic man' and expressed confidence in a 'good deal' for the India-US trade relationship. Siracusa concludes by addressing the European Union's quandary, as they face a 'rupture' with Washington while remaining dependent on US security support against threats from Russia.
In this address, US President Donald Trump outlines a bold foreign policy agenda centered on the acquisition of Greenland from Denmark. Trump asserts that 'all the United States is asking for is a place called Greenland' to ensure national security and establish a 'Golden Dome' defense system that would also protect Canada. He criticizes NATO allies for failing to contribute fairly, claiming the US has historically paid '100 percent of NATO' while receiving nothing in return. Trump also discusses his efforts to mediate the Russia-Ukraine conflict, describing it as a 'bloodbath' that must stop. Furthermore, he details domestic military reforms, including banning stock buybacks for defense companies and accelerating the production of advanced weaponry like the 'F-47' fighter jet. The President emphasizes that economic prosperity is the foundation of national security, warning allies that their cooperation on Greenland will influence future US support.
In a dramatic start to 2026, a US strike on Venezuela has toppled a 'strongman', triggering global reactions. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarified Britain's stance, stating, 'I can be absolutely clear that we were not involved in that,' while emphasizing the need to 'uphold international law.' The operation, described as a 'Trump attack', also drew a sharp response from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who suggested Washington now 'knows what to do next' regarding dictators. The report details the geopolitical shockwaves as Latin American nations warn of escalation.
This Special Report details the global fallout following the United States' dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The operation has triggered a wave of international reactions, with Russia condemning the move and demanding an urgent UNSC meeting. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remarked that Washington now ‘knows what to do next’ regarding dictators, a comment seen as a veiled reference to Vladimir Putin. Former US Vice President Kamala Harris criticised President Donald Trump, stating the action does not make America safer. In a direct address, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarified the UK's position, stating, ‘I want to establish the facts first, I want to speak to President Trump... I can be absolutely clear that we were not involved in that.’ The report also highlights concerns from Brazil, Colombia, and China regarding international law and sovereignty.
This report details a meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago to discuss ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The speaker notes that Trump also held a 2.5-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin prior to the meeting. According to the report, both leaders expressed optimism about a peace deal, with Zelenskyy suggesting a full agreement could be reached by January 2026. The programme highlights that while progress has been made, issues regarding territory and security guarantees remain unresolved. The report also mentions the involvement of Steve Whitkoff and Jared Kushner in the peace plan negotiations.
In this exclusive interview, former US Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor analyses the high-stakes diplomatic meetings involving Donald Trump’s envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff in Moscow and Berlin. Speaking to the host, Ambassador Taylor discusses reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is willing to 'withdraw their request for membership of NATO for the time being' in exchange for alternative security guarantees. He explains the concept of a European-led 'coalition of the willing' to secure Ukraine, distinct from NATO. Taylor also assesses the crumbling of the post-Cold War security architecture and the necessity for Europe to fend for itself against Russian aggression.
This special report covers breaking news of a potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, reportedly brokered by the Trump administration to end the nearly four-year-long war. The discussion, featuring insights from correspondent Rohit Sharma in Washington, notes that Ukraine has allegedly accepted the agreement pending final details. According to Rohit Sharma, 'the devil is always in the details. So we do not know if all those three red lines that were drawn by the Europeans would be taken into consideration or not'. The report mentions that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is awaiting the plan, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may travel to Washington to seal the deal.
This special report focuses on accelerating peace talks between the United States and Ukraine in Geneva, Switzerland. A US delegation including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Army Secretary Daniel Skoll, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is in Geneva for discussions with Ukrainian representatives. The talks proceed amid comments from US President Donald Trump that the current peace plan is not a final offer and controversy over a leaked 28-point plan. The bulletin also notes that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been in contact with European leaders. Correspondent Rohit Sharma reports, 'Secretary Rubio has called the lawmakers and told them that, you know, the 28-point plan that was leaked in the media had Russian talking points because it was developed by the Russians, and that does not necessarily state the position of the United States.' The meetings aim to find a resolution to the ongoing war with Russia.
This special report focusses on a upcoming meeting between former US President Donald Trump and New York State Assembly member Zohran Mamdani, and a proposed 28-point Ukraine peace plan attributed to Trump.
This special report covers Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's reaction to a United States-backed peace proposal to end the war with Russia. President Zelenskyy described the situation as one of the most difficult in Ukraine's history, stating the proposed deal is pro-Russia and could compromise the nation's sovereignty and security. According to President Zelenskyy, 'Now is one of the most difficult moments in our history.' The report highlights the tension between Ukraine and its primary ally, the United States, over the negotiations. President Zelenskyy frames the situation as a choice for Ukraine between losing its dignity or risking the loss of a key international partner. The Ukrainian leader also referenced 'difficult 28 points' in the proposed deal, underscoring the significant challenges and risks ahead for his country.
A news bulletin covers a 28-point peace plan for Ukraine proposed by US President Donald Trump, which has been delivered to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The plan, developed with input from Washington and Moscow, reportedly requires Ukraine to cede territory, end its ambitions to join NATO, and limit its army's size. President Zelenskyy has welcomed the proposal, stating, 'Ukraine needs peace. And a real peace that will not break... A decent peace, so that the conditions are in line with our independence, our sovereignty, the dignity of the Ukrainian people.' He confirmed he will speak with President Trump and that their countries will work together on the plan. The bulletin also notes calls from the US for European nations to cease buying Russian energy resources and for G7 member states to support the peace efforts.
This India Today special report, anchored by Gaurav Sawant, decodes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Deepavali address from the indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. The Prime Minister's statement, referencing 'Operation Sindoor' and Pakistan, sent a strategic message to India's adversaries. Top military experts, including Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha and Mrs.3 Mrs.2 Syed Ata Hasnain, analyze India's growing self-reliance in defence, highlighted by platforms like the BrahMos missile and INS Vikrant, and the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. The discussion also examines Pakistan's escalating multi-front security crisis, with challenges facing Army Chief Asim Munir from the TTP, Baloch insurgents, and internal protests. Expert Sandeep Unnithan discusses the stakes, including the potential acceleration of Pakistan's breakup if troops are sent to Gaza. The report further covers the fragile Qatar-mediated ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and a White House meeting where President Donald Trump pressured Ukraine's President Zelenskyy regarding territory, alongside India's role as a first responder in regional crises.
This special report focuses on the high-stakes White House meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, centering on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. President Trump offered a stark assessment of the conflict's core obstacle, stating, 'They have tremendous bad blood. It really is what is holding up, I think, the settlement.' The discussion reveals Trump's refusal to provide Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles, a key request from Zelenskyy, citing concerns about depleting U.S. stockpiles and potential escalation. Instead, Trump is aggressively pushing for a diplomatic resolution, referencing a recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and a planned summit in Budapest. Despite Zelenskyy's plea for more firepower, Trump's clear message is to prioritize a peace deal over further military engagement.
This special report focuses on U.S. President Donald Trump's shifting stance on supplying Tomahawk long-range missiles to Ukraine, following discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and ahead of a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump expressed his hesitation, stating, 'We need Tomahawks for the United States of America too... we can't deplete for our country'. The announcement came after a phone call with President Putin, who warned that providing Kyiv with these powerful weapons would inflict 'significant damage' on relations between Moscow and Washington. With President Zelenskyy scheduled to visit the White House to press for the advanced missiles, Trump's comments have cast serious doubt on the future of U.S. military aid to Ukraine and its strategy for the ongoing war.
This special report focuses on former US President Donald Trump's diplomatic engagement with Russia and Ukraine. Key figures discussed include Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, ahead of a scheduled meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy. According to a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump stated, 'I am speaking to President Putin now. The conversation is ongoing, a lengthy one, and I will report the contents, as will President Putin, at its conclusion.' This communication occurs as the United States considers supplying long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. The report also touches on Trump's recent comments urging India to stop its oil imports from Russia and a US-brokered peace agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has backed Donald Trump's 50% tariff imposed on India, stating it is the "right idea to penalise India." In a statement to a US TV network, Zelenskyy advocated for penalising nations that maintain trade relations with Russia. This endorsement follows the imposition of tariffs by the US in response to India's continued purchase of Russian oil amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The development comes after recent talks between Prime Minister Modi and President Zelenskyy, where a peaceful resolution to the conflict was discussed. The report also notes the context of European nations continuing to purchase large volumes of Russian gas, a point of comparison to India's oil imports.
US President Donald Trump on Monday met his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House in a high-stakes meeting on Monday, nearly six months after both leaders were involved in a heated showdown at the Oval Office.
On India Today Global, the focus is on the crucial diplomatic developments concerning the conflict. Ukrainian President Zelensky has agreed to a trilateral meeting with Russian President Putin and US President Donald Trump. This follows a meeting in Washington D.C. involving President Trump, President Zelensky, and European leaders. A key concern for Ukraine remains its security guarantees and the sustained support from European partners and the United States. Discussions also covered the territorial integrity and military interests of Ukraine. President Trump expressed satisfaction with progress made, following his earlier meeting with President Putin in Alaska. The possibility of a territorial swap was a significant issue, with Ukraine expressing concern about yielding land. The programme explores these diplomatic efforts to find a solution to the conflict.